NEW YORK - American Classical Orchestra presents Astronomical, Alice Tully Hall, Lincoln Center, New YorkUnder Maestro Crawford's able baton, the ACO and soloists presented an imaginative, innovative, and marvelous collection of 18th-century musical gems performed by a fine orchestra. Using period instruments, the ensemble projected a historically rich and authentic musical experience characterized by warmth, clarity, and a distinct period sound.MagicalTonight's concert was more than just a performance—it was a magical, immersive experience where listeners transcended time to revel in the authenticity of the music's epoch. Indeed, the evening was a delightful journey into the heart of 18th-century music, illuminated by the virtuosity of master musicians and the rich acoustics of a hall resonating with historical sonic poetry.Period InstrumentsFor those new to "period instruments', features include gut strings that create warmth and a softer, rounder tone, the use of baroque bows, wooden transverse flutes, 18th century double reeds (oboes and bassoons), natural horns and trumpets, timpani with natural skin heads, minimal use of vibrato, and Maestro Crawford conducting as he performed on the harpsichord continuo.Jessica Park, ViolinThe concert began with Johan Daniel Berlin's Violin Concerto No. 5 in A Major, performed by violin soloist Jessica Park. Park deftly navigated the work's intricate ornamentation and quick passagework, highlighting virtuosity and rich sound. Her interplay with the orchestra created a conversational, engaging quality evoking buoyant delights and tenderness, gradually building to a triumphant conclusion.Subtle Stylings Jessica Park, Violin, Photo by David Noles. Gonzalo-Ruiz, Oboe. Courtesy aconyc.orgIn CPE Bach's Symphony in B Minor, listeners sensed the composer's subtle stylings, as evidenced by the work's sudden contrasts and expressive melodic lines. Rapid shifts in mood and tempo produced excitement while engaging listeners.Gonzalo Ruiz, OboeOboist Gonzalo Ruiz joined the orchestra for William Herschel's Oboe Concerto No. 1 in E flat major. Performing with a period instrument, Ruiz exhibited exquisite control, virtuosity, and breath support that made the oboe lines soar while authentic ornamentation and cadenzas enhanced the performance.InsightsDuring the concert, Maestro Thomas Crawford explained many features of the music. He called on orchestra sections to demonstrate excerpts as he elucidated insights into the music's structures, inspiration, and purposes.Brilliance, Wit, and CharmMoreover, Crawford shared his keenly informed insights about the music that earned positive, significant audience responses to his witticisms and humor. Like those around me, I couldn't help but chuckle—I even ruminated about concerts I attended long ago where Peter Schickele similarly shared his brilliance, wit, and charm. Crawford's exploratory references to "Astronomical" forces were hilarious!Bravo!As the final notes of Mozart's exquisite Jupiter Symphony resonated in the hall, the audience rose, revitalized and inspired. This evening of virtuosity, authenticity, and masterful programming produced an unforgettable concert that left intuitive listeners deeply and artistically connected to the past and profoundly uplifted by the timeless beauty and expression of 18th-century music.American Classical Orchestra presents AstronomicalConducted by Founder & Artistic Director Thomas CrawfordJohan Daniel Berlin Concerto á 5 in A Major, Jessica Park, ViolinCPE Bach Symphony in B minorWilliam Herschel Oboe Concerto No. 1 in E-flat, Gonzalo Ruiz, OboeMozart Symphony 41 in C (Jupiter)American Classical OrchestraPO Box 366New York, NY 10025-0007Office: (212) 362-2727Click HERE for information and TicketsReaders may also enjoy our reviews of American Classical Orchestra Performs Bach's B Minor Mass, Oratorio Society of NY Performs Mahler, Beethoven, and Karen P. Thomas, and the Park Avenue Chamber Symphony Records Tchaikovsky.https://youtu.be/VXBaD2a7K6c?si=PpcsxcPzVJZAvqZZ